Hon. Makahamadze celebrated his birthday with Ruvimbo Special School in Southerton In a heartwarming tradition that has become a beacon of compassion in Harare, Honorable Makahamadze  celebrated his birthday with the children of Ruvimbo Special School  in Southerton. The event, attended by former child president His Excellency Neville Mavu , was filled with music, laughter, and a generous slice of cake for every child. Hon. Makahamadze’s Message of Inclusion “I don’t look at these kids as disabled, but angels,” Hon. Makahamadze said in his address to parents and students. He urged families to embrace their children with special needs, quoting the late James Chimombe’s classic   Zvandapihwa naShe ndinogamuchira  (“What I’ve been given by the Lord, I accept”), encouraging parents to see their children as blessings, not burdens. A Legacy of Mentorship Former child president Neville Mavu praised his mentor for instilling the values of philanthropy and service.“He showed me the ropes, and today I stand here because of his example,” Mavu said. Community Gratitude Headmaster Mr. Chimanda  expressed heartfelt appreciation, describing Hon. Makahamadze as “one of the most reliable helpers we have.” The school caters to children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other intellectual and physical challenges , and has long benefited from his ongoing support. He shared cake, music, and a message of inclusion: “These are angels, not disabilities.” Joyful Performances from the Children The children lit up the celebration with their own rendition of Rakanaka Ivhangeri , humorously reworked into Rinonaka Keke  (“The Cake Is Delicious”). Their singing filled the hall with joy, underscoring the day’s message that happiness and hope know no limits. Conclusion As the candles were blown out and the final crumbs of cake enjoyed, the Southerton community was reminded that true leadership is measured not by titles, but through acts of kindness and inclusion .

Ousmane Dembélé’s 2025 Ballon d’Or win sparks controversy ( image source ) The debate over who truly “won” in Paris this year has shifted from a single trophy to a broader question about the Ballon d’Or’s relevance and credibility after a contested 2025 ceremony that crowned Ousmane Dembélé  amid fractured club responses and voting scrutiny. Critics argue the glamour is fading as leaks, boycotts, and opaque voting fuel doubts about whether the awards still reflect football’s best—or merely its politics and marketing. Dembélé’s Controversial Coronation The ceremony in Paris honoured Dembélé  and Aitana Bonmatí  before a global audience, but the build-up and aftermath were fraught. Reports of leaks, pre-event narratives, and boycotts resurfaced familiar concerns. Real Madrid maintained its partial boycott, citing voting irregularities, while jubilant PSG coverage stood in sharp contrast to sceptical columns questioning whether peer and journalist ballots remain impartial. Why the Glitter is Dimming Sports analysts highlight several forces eroding the Ballon d’Or’s prestige: Leaks and lobbying  — The modern media cycle amplifies behind-the-scenes speculation, undermining the surprise factor. Club politics and commercial interests  — Voting blocs now appear intertwined with power struggles and marketing strategies. Recurrent controversies  — Fans increasingly view trophies as narrative tools rather than pure merit-based accolades. Expert Perspectives A Sports Illustrated  analysis noted the awards have evolved into elaborate media events, inviting greater scrutiny about fairness. Sporting News  observed that 2025’s unusually open field meant the final result did little to resolve debates over the most deserving winner. PSG hailed the win as validation of Dembélé’s exceptional season, while critics demanded clearer disclosures of voting criteria. Fan Reaction On X and fan forums, reactions ranged from triumph to outrage. Some celebrated Dembélé’s achievement, while others decried “cronyism.” Calls grew louder for reform—public publication of ballots, stricter voter eligibility, and identity verification. The polarised response reflects broader cultural demands for transparency from elite sporting institutions. The Reform Agenda Analysts propose restoring legitimacy through reforms such as: Publishing detailed vote breakdowns Tightening eligibility for voters Conducting independent audits of ballots Outlining transparent, published criteria for awards “We need published ballots and independent audits if the Ballon d’Or is to regain its moral authority.” — Sports governance analyst Outlook The Paris ceremony remains culturally significant, but it stands at a crossroads: embrace reforms to rebuild credibility or risk drifting into theatre where trophies spark more controversy than celebration. Football stakeholders must decide whether the Ballon d’Or continues as the pinnacle of individual recognition—or fades into spectacle.

Zimbabwe signs a US $455m concession with Jindal Africa to refurbish Hwange Thermal Power Station ( image source ) The Government of Zimbabwe has approved a US $455 million, 15-year concession deal  with Jindal Africa—the Africa-focused unit of India’s Jindal Steel—to refurbish six ageing units at the Hwange Thermal Power Station . The project, set to unfold over the next four years, will restore a combined 920 MW of capacity. Deal Structure and Implementation Energy Minister July Moyo  confirmed that Jindal Africa will finance, rehabilitate, and operate the retrofitted units before handing them back to the Zimbabwe Power Company. The consortium will recover its investment through electricity sales. “This agreement is a game-changer for our energy sector. It will stabilise supply and support economic growth,” Minister Moyo said. The concession mirrors other African public-private partnerships, transferring operational risks to the private sector. Jindal Africa will introduce advanced boiler refurbishment, control-system upgrades, and emissions-control technology to align with environmental standards. Energy Deficit and National Demand Zimbabwe’s national electricity demand sits at 2,000–2,200 MW , but current supply covers only half, leading to frequent and extended power cuts. The Hwange station , built in the 1980s with an installed 1,520 MW, is operating at roughly a third of capacity due to breakdowns. Kariba hydropower—hit by drought despite a 2018 upgrade adding 300 MW—cannot bridge the deficit alone. Economist Dr. David Chakanyuka  of the University of Zimbabwe stressed the urgency:“Restoring Hwange’s full output is critical to ending load shedding and revitalising industry. Businesses cannot plan when power cuts are daily occurrences.” Business and Industry Reactions Local industry welcomed the announcement. CZI President Business Chamboko  said stable power would boost manufacturing and attract foreign investment, particularly in energy-intensive sectors such as mining and agro-processing. Background and Strategic Importance The Hwange Thermal Power Station, commissioned in the late 1970s, originally housed eight units totalling 1,920 MW. Two newer units commissioned in 2023 added 600 MW, but the six older units remain crippled by neglect and breakdowns. Rolling blackouts cost Zimbabwe an estimated US $1 billion annually . Under President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030  framework, energy security is a top priority, with a target of 100 percent generation capacity by 2027 through diversified sources, including solar and wind. The Jindal concession dovetails with those plans, though financing challenges have slowed other pipeline projects. Next Steps Work on the refurbishment is slated to begin in early 2026 , with phased unit commissioning starting in 2027 . ZESA Holdings will monitor the project through an independent oversight committee.

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe launches a nationwide survey to test public confidence in the ZiG digital currency ( image source ) The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has launched a nationwide “ZiG Perception and Confidence Survey II”  to test public trust in the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) digital currency. The exercise comes as scepticism, persistent currency volatility, and the continued dominance of the US dollar in local trade raise doubts over ZiG’s acceptance as a stable medium of exchange. Central Bank Outreach RBZ officials said the survey will measure ZiG’s performance as a store of value, medium of exchange, and unit of account. Teams have been deployed across urban and rural areas, conducting real-time interviews at markets, banks, and digital platforms. Findings will guide monetary policy adjustments and outreach strategies. A September statement framed the initiative as essential to “understand experiences with ZiG, measure confidence in our currency and inform future monetary policy decisions.” Public Scepticism and Economic Headwinds Economists argue that lasting trust in money depends on price stability and predictable exchange rates. Harare-based economist Dr. Tinashe Moyo  warned that without stabilising the broader economy, ZiG adoption will remain weak. “Introducing a single digital currency without first stabilising the underlying economy could exacerbate existing financial pressures,” Dr. Moyo said. Informal traders at Mbare Musika reported pricing goods in US dollars, citing its reliability for cross-border customers and as a safeguard for savings. Operational Challenges Banking executives note liquidity management, merchant acceptance, and ease of conversion as hurdles to wider use. Payment platform operators added that outages and varying transaction fees are eroding trust in electronic ZiG payments. Suggestions from industry players include capping fees, improving system uptime, and incentivising merchants. Legacy of Currency Distrust Zimbabwe’s history of hyperinflation and multiple currency shifts continues to undermine confidence in state-backed money. While initial acceptance of ZiG was positive after its April 2024 launch, economic pressures have weakened sentiment. The current survey seeks to assess whether that goodwill has endured. What Success Would Look Like Analysts point to measurable benchmarks for building confidence: reduced inflation, narrowing ZiG–USD spreads, visible reserve accumulation, and wider merchant adoption. Consumer protection, stronger redemption mechanisms, and legal clarity in contracts and wages are also key to success. Next Steps The RBZ is expected to publish the survey’s findings and propose policy responses in the coming weeks. Observers will be watching closely for concrete steps to stabilise purchasing power and potential incentives, such as interest-bearing ZiG instruments, to encourage savings.

The Zimbabwe Media Commission held a FOIA training workshop in Masvingo ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) last week spearheaded a high-level training workshop on the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in Masvingo, bringing together senior government officials, local authorities, and provincial heads in a drive to strengthen transparency and accountability in line with constitutional provisions and Vision 2030. Delivering the keynote address, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Ezra Chadzamira , described the programme as “timely, strategic and essential” in fostering open governance. “Access to accurate, timely and relevant information is not a privilege; it is a constitutional right enshrined in Section 62 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The Freedom of Information Act operationalises this right, ensuring citizens can obtain information held by public institutions while balancing national security, privacy and the public interest,” Hon. Chadzamira said. He urged provincial and district officials to embrace their role as custodians of information, noting that local structures are the first point of contact for citizens seeking clarity on government programmes. Commission’s Role ZMC Chairperson Professor Ruby Magosvongwe  emphasised the Commission’s mandate to promote professionalism and accountability in government communications. “The Freedom of Information Act is not a tool for criticism or confrontation; it is a bridge between government and the people. It fosters trust, strengthens democratic participation and empowers citizens to make informed decisions,” she said. The training, part of ZMC’s nationwide awareness drive, covered FOIA provisions, request-handling procedures, record management, and balancing transparency with confidentiality. Call to Action Closing the workshop, Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa , commended the ZMC for its technical and financial support. “The responsibility to uphold the right to information rests with each one of us. This training should not end in this room; it must translate into a new culture of openness in our offices, departments and agencies,” he said. Context The workshop comes as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to align governance systems with the Second Republic’s devolution thrust under the guiding mantra of “leaving no place and no one behind.”

At UNGA 80, 11 countries including the UK and Italy formally recognised Palestine ( image source ) Eleven countries, including the United Kingdom and Italy, are set to formally recognise the State of Palestine during the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this week. The move, hailed as a breakthrough in a decades-old diplomatic stalemate, has drawn mixed reactions across Africa as leaders weigh solidarity with Palestine against calls for continental consensus. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced in a video address that Britain would “formally recognise the State of Palestine” to preserve the two-state framework amid escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza. Italy’s government quickly followed, citing “Palestinian aspirations for sovereign statehood.” France, Belgium, Portugal, Andorra, Malta, and Luxembourg also confirmed recognition at the UNGA summit co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France, bringing the total to 11 European states making the pledge on UNGA’s opening day. “Recognition by Western allies breaks the ice after decades of inaction,” noted Middle East analyst Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group. African Positions African Union members remain divided. South Africa, Namibia, and Mozambique endorsed recognition, citing international law and long-standing UN resolutions backing Palestinian statehood. Nigeria described the move as “a milestone for African solidarity” but urged a measured AU consensus to maintain unity. Zimbabwe reaffirmed its historical support for Palestinian self-determination but stopped short of formal recognition, with a Foreign Affairs spokesperson stating that Harare “supports the two-state solution and will back any genuine effort to resume meaningful negotiations,” while awaiting AU consultations. Global Context The recognition campaign comes days after a UNGA resolution secured overwhelming backing, with 143 votes in favour of Palestinian statehood and calls for a ceasefire. The United States and Israel opposed the motion, while both countries also barred President Mahmoud Abbas from entering, prompting a rare UNGA ruling to permit his video address. Brazil meanwhile announced its intervention in South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). By invoking Article 63 of the ICJ Statute, Brazil formally aligned itself with South Africa, ensuring future court interpretations of the 1948 Genocide Convention apply to Brasilia as well. Historical Backdrop The two-state vision—dating back to UN Resolution 181 of 1947 and later the Oslo Accords of 1993—has faltered amid Israeli settlement expansion and repeated cycles of conflict. Palestine, which has non-member observer status at the UN since 2012, would gain treaty rights, full UN agency membership, and ambassadorial exchanges under formal recognition. Zimbabwe endorsed the 2012 UNGA vote that upgraded Palestine’s status and has since maintained limited bilateral ties through its Harare mission to the Palestinian Authority, including student exchanges and humanitarian contributions. Officials say Harare’s final stance will depend on the African Union’s consensus position expected by 24 September. What’s Next With Western states joining the recognition wave, Zimbabwe faces a delicate balance between affirming solidarity, preserving AU unity, and navigating its wider diplomatic interests. The ICJ case and UNGA debates underscore how Palestine’s quest for statehood now intertwines with global legal and political battles.

The Late Zimbabwean comedian and Star FM DJ Babongile “Ndebele Rock Star” Sikhonjwa ( image source ) Star FM DJ, comedian and master of ceremonies Babongile Sikhonjwa—affectionately known as the “Ndebele Rock Star”—has died suddenly at age 49, his family confirmed on Sunday. Sikhonjwa collapsed while visiting a friend in Bulawayo early in the morning and was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. His father, Nicholas Sikhonjwa Moyo, told reporters his son had complained of breathing difficulties before collapsing. “He never said goodbye,” he said. “He was still warm when we arrived; it felt unreal.” Post-mortem results are expected later this week before funeral arrangements proceed. Media Career and Legacy Star FM paid tribute to Sikhonjwa, praising his “passion, charisma and deep commitment to the creative arts” and his role as an advocate for Zimbabwe’s artistic community. Colleagues described him as a tireless mentor who helped launch emerging talent. Sikhonjwa’s sudden passing has shaken Bulawayo’s entertainment scene. He began his radio career at Skyz Metro FM, where he won a National Arts Merit Award for Outstanding Radio Presenter in 2019. In 2023, he joined Zimpapers-owned Star FM to host The After Drive  on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, quickly gaining a nationwide following. Beyond radio, he managed Red Cafe, a popular live-music venue, and worked as a stand-up comic and events MC. “Wherever Babongile went, people were guaranteed a good time,” said fellow comedian Langalakhe Mabena. Early Life and Impact Born in Bulawayo, Sikhonjwa attended Mzingwane High School and Milton High before studying computer science locally. He later honed his media skills in the United Kingdom, becoming a qualified sound engineer and fusing his technology background with entertainment. His work was central to Bulawayo’s arts festivals and comedy circuits. He is survived by two children and three younger siblings. The arts community has rallied online under the hashtag #NdebeleRockStar , with tributes pouring in from across Southern Africa. “His energy, humour and generosity were unmatched,” wrote director Dumisani “MaForty” Ndlovu. “He united us all.” Broader Reflections Zimbabwe’s broadcast sector has long depended on charismatic presenters to retain audiences amid economic and competitive pressures. Sikhonjwa’s wit and advocacy underscored the role of radio personalities in shaping culture and championing causes—from health campaigns to youth entrepreneurship. As fans and colleagues await details of memorial services, the tragedy has also raised concerns about healthcare access for creative professionals. The Zimbabwe Association of Community Radio Stations has urged for tailored medical-insurance schemes for freelancers and part-time entertainers. The Sikhonjwa family will announce funeral dates following the release of post-mortem results.

African recruits misled into Russia’s war in Ukraine reveal a pattern of deception ( image source ) Kenyan athlete Evans Kibet is among dozens of Africans who say they were misled into joining Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, rather than pursuing the jobs or studies they were promised.~ In a video released by Ukraine’s 57th Separate Motorised Infantry Brigade, the 36-year-old long-distance runner tearfully explained that he signed enlistment papers in Moscow believing they were employment contracts—only to find himself at a Russian front-line camp with orders to fight. Kibet’s case is not isolated. Ukrainian officials estimate hundreds of foreign recruits—many from Africa—have been ensnared by similar schemes. “Some are deceived—promised jobs at factories or training positions—while others join voluntarily,” Ukraine’s prisoner-of-war spokesperson Petro Yatsenko told the BBC, noting that captured recruits include nationals of Somalia, Sierra Leone, Togo, Cuba and Sri Lanka. “Very few are captured alive; most are either killed or seriously injured,” Yatsenko remarked, highlighting the deadly risks faced by duped recruits. Deceptive Pathways to War According to a May 2025 online report, Russia’s fast-track citizenship decree has been used to lure thousands of foreign nationals. Under the Kremlin order, any non-Russian who signs a one-year contract becomes eligible for immediate citizenship—an incentive that drew more than 600 Africans into Russian service by mid-2024, often under false pretences of technical or educational roles. A 2024 ABC News investigation also found that Russia recruited young women from Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Nigeria for a so-called “work-study” programme in Tatarstan. Instead of hospitality training, about 200 recruits discovered upon arrival that they were assembling Iranian-designed attack drones for deployment in Ukraine. Recruits described constant surveillance, chemical exposure and wages far below what was promised. “Social-media ads showed smiling interns touring European cities,” the ABC report noted. “But the reality was a heavily guarded factory floor, with little choice but to comply.” Kibet reported a similar experience, saying his phone and passport were confiscated before being driven to a military camp. Exploitation of Vulnerability Criminologist Dr. Daniel Kosoy of the University of Pretoria says Russia’s recruitment of foreign fighters reflects “a tactic to offset manpower shortages without domestic mobilisations.” He argues that deception, not patriotism, is the cornerstone of such operations, preying on economic hardship and visa uncertainties in poorer countries. Russia’s strategy dates back to January 2024, when President Vladimir Putin authorised contracts offering passports, residency permits and monthly wages of up to US$2,000. Investigative outlet The Insider  reported that special-operations units target sub-Saharan Africa through online ads, community leaders and informal networks. Recruits often sign documents in Cyrillic—unreadable to many—before undergoing minimal training and deployment to Ukraine’s front lines. African Governments Respond The phenomenon has drawn concern from African governments. Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei confirmed that Nairobi is “keenly following information on three or four Kenyans allegedly trafficked to Russia and currently held as POWs”—a group that includes Kibet. International law recognises that coerced combatants remain civilians until formally enlisted, meaning forced recruitment violates the Geneva Conventions. Still, few African states have robust repatriation frameworks. Togo has publicly denounced the recruitment of its nationals and warned citizens about overseas “study” offers that mask military contracts. While some Africans have voluntarily joined armed groups—from South African volunteers in Wagner-linked outfits to Congolese fighters in Ukraine’s International Legion—those misled into combat lack ideological motives and risk being stigmatised as mercenaries upon return. Kenya says it is working through diplomatic channels in Moscow and Kyiv to secure the repatriation of its citizens. Ukraine has indicated willingness to release Kibet if formally requested. Observers are now watching whether the African Union will push for a coordinated response or establish a repatriation fund for duped recruits.

Zimbabwe faces cyclone threats in the 2025–26 rainy season, with La Niña patterns raising flood and crop risks Zimbabwe faces a heightened risk of tropical cyclones and erratic rains in the 2025–26 season, meteorologists and humanitarian agencies warned on Monday, urging early preparedness for floods and infrastructure stress. The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) and regional forecasting bodies say a weak La Niña signal and a negative Indian Ocean Dipole raise the probability of above-normal rainfall in parts of the country from December, while October–November may be drier than usual, creating rapid shifts in hazard exposure. The MSD’s national outlook signals a “season of two halves”: a delayed, erratic onset with dry conditions in October–November followed by normal to above-normal rainfall from December into early 2026. Eastern and southern provinces are especially vulnerable to tropical cyclone impacts. Preparedness and Disaster Risk Disaster managers warn that the combination of a dry planting window followed by heavy rains increases the risk of flash floods, crop loss and damage to roads and dams. They have called for pre-season action on early-warning systems, water management, and infrastructure readiness. MSD director Rebecca Manzou told reporters that the exact tracks and intensity of any cyclones remain uncertain, but the atmospheric energy available increases the likelihood of systems forming over the southwest Indian Ocean that could reach Zimbabwe’s eastern districts. Communities in flood-prone zones have been urged to heed Department of Civil Protection alerts. The World Food Programme’s recent donation of 4x4 vehicles to MSD was cited as a significant boost to field monitoring and early-warning capacity. “Early warning saves lives and livelihoods,” said Billy Mwiinga, WFP deputy country director, highlighting the importance of mobility for verifying forecasts and moving relief supplies. Agricultural Impact Agriculture experts warn the forecast complicates planting decisions. Agronomist Dr. Tapiwa Mataruka explained that farmers face a difficult choice: plant early and risk dry spells that harm germination, or delay planting and risk seedbeds being overwhelmed by heavy rains later in the season. “Flexible planting windows, seed-and-fertiliser support timed to the December rains, and water-harvesting measures are now essential,” he said. Zimbabwe’s largely rainfed smallholder sector supplies the bulk of staple maize, making the forecast a serious concern for food security. The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) has similarly flagged elevated risks linked to La Niña patterns for southern Africa that could deepen vulnerability if mitigation steps are not taken. Historical Context and Next Steps The country suffered catastrophic impacts during Cyclone Idai in 2019, when eastern districts saw widespread landslides and flooding. Concerns that preparedness remains uneven have prompted both government and donors to emphasise pre-positioning, road maintenance and community evacuation planning this year. Authorities will update seasonal outlooks monthly. MSD and the Department of Civil Protection plan joint community awareness drives ahead of the peak December–February window. Analysts say reservoir levels, dam management, and local contingency stocks will serve as early indicators of preparedness.

Hon. Andrew Makahamadze turns 52, celebrated for his faith, philanthropy, and people-centred leadership This Wednesday, Southerton celebrates the fifty-second birthday of Hon. Andrew Makahamadze, a leader whose life story weaves together public service, philanthropy, faith, and family. His career spans decades of community-building, policy engagement, and charitable work, leaving an indelible mark on Southerton and beyond. For Hon. Makahamadze, leadership has never been about position or power, but about people. “I want to leave a legacy of having helped my fellow human beings be in a better place,” he often says. That commitment has guided his steps as a father, pastor, politician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Public Roles and Institutional Leadership Hon. Makahamadze serves in multiple leadership capacities. He is Chairman of the Board of Southerton Business Times  and Chairman of the Southerton Development Trust, where he has spearheaded initiatives addressing water access, health delivery, and youth empowerment. A trained pastor, he is also a patriotic member of ZANU PF, serving in the District Coordinating Committee Zone 6 Harare as Secretary for Business and Economic Development, having graduated from the Chitepo School of Ideology. He is currently studying towards a Master’s degree in Business and Economic Intelligence. His influence extends nationally. He is the Ethics Goodwill Ambassador for the Ethics Institute of Zimbabwe, advocating transparency and accountability in public life. As Goodwill Ambassador for the Great Dyke City Initiative, he champions sustainable investment in Zimbabwe’s mineral-rich corridor. He also partners with the Mount Carmel Institute, contributing to educational mentorship and moral formation, and sits on the board of the Global Institute of Security Management. These diverse roles are not separate threads but part of a single tapestry. His pastoral roots shape his leadership style; his ambassadorial duties reinforce his belief in ethical stewardship; and his institutional roles provide platforms to mobilise resources and influence policy for community gain. Philanthropic Initiatives Education has always been at the centre of his mission. Through the Andrew Makahamadze Foundation, disadvantaged children have had their school fees paid, with uniform drives restoring dignity and inclusion. Food Security is another pillar. The Foundation runs regular food distribution programmes for households under stress. Health interventions have also been impactful. Donations of clinical equipment—from blood pressure monitors to essential supplies—have enhanced local clinics’ ability to serve patients. Economic Empowerment has been advanced through interest-free loans to small-scale traders, particularly women. These micro-loans have helped families stabilise incomes and fund children’s education. Faith, Family, and Personal Character At the heart of his leadership is faith. His pastoral training is evident in his humility, capacity to listen, and moral counsel. Beyond public life, he is a devoted husband and father of five children—three daughters and two sons—who see him not only as a public figure but as a present and engaged parent. Friends and colleagues often remark on his warmth and humour, qualities that balance his seriousness of purpose. “Honourable Makahamadze always tells us that leadership is about service, not titles. He doesn’t just say it—he lives it,” said one of his mentees. Observance and Legacy At 52, Hon. Andrew Makahamadze’s record of service is already a testament to what ethical leadership and people-centred development can achieve. His initiatives combine immediate relief with sustainable opportunities for growth. His ambassadorial and political engagements reinforce his vision of a Zimbabwe built on resilience, patriotism, and inclusion. As he enters his fifty-third year, the Southerton community honours not just his birthday but the example he sets. His life reminds us that servant leadership, grounded in ethics and sustained by faith, has the power to transform lives. Happy birthday, Hon. Andrew Makahamadze. Your fifty-two years have already been a gift to Southerton and to Zimbabwe—and your legacy is still being written.

Two men in Harare have been arrested for allegedly assaulting a 14-year-old girl at knifepoint ( image source ) Two men have been arrested in Harare for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl at knifepoint after luring her into their apartment, in a case that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stronger child protection laws. The suspects, Shepherd Tinoziva (47) and Savior Chiseko (30), reportedly locked the girl inside their flat and threatened her with a knife before committing the assault. The incident was confirmed by Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza. “Police arrested two suspects for raping a juvenile,” Chakanza said. “The complainant developed wounds and disclosed the rape to her mother.” The victim was taken to the Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Poly Clinic for medical examination. Authorities say the suspects will face charges under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which prescribes severe penalties for sexual offences against minors. Zimbabwe has seen a surge in gender-based violence (GBV), with over 7,000 cases reported in 2024, according to the Zimbabwe Gender Commission. Experts cite economic stress, social disintegration, and weak enforcement as contributing factors. “We need to strengthen community awareness and legal enforcement,” said GBV advocate Rudo Mupambwa. “Too many cases go unreported or unresolved.” Police investigations are ongoing. Child rights organisations have called for psychological support for the victim and swift prosecution of the suspects. The case adds urgency to national efforts to combat sexual violence and protect vulnerable populations.

Spain has threatened to boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup if Israel participates ( image source ) Spain has warned it may boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup if Israel is allowed to participate, citing alleged human rights violations in Gaza and demanding consistency in FIFA’s treatment of member nations. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez issued the threat during a Socialist Workers' Party meeting, urging FIFA and UEFA to apply the same standards used to ban Russia in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine. “Israel cannot continue to use any international platform to whitewash its image,” Sanchez said. Spain’s stance follows a United Nations inquiry that found “reasonable grounds” to conclude Israel committed four of five genocidal acts defined under international law. The Gaza conflict, which began with Hamas’ October 2023 attack, has resulted in over 64,000 Palestinian deaths, according to humanitarian groups. Israel’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the U.N. findings as “distorted and false.” Spanish Sports Minister Pilar Alegria echoed Sanchez’s call for Israel’s exclusion from global sporting events. “Sport is not, and cannot be, an island independent of what happens in the real world,” Alegria said. FIFA has not yet responded. Spain, unbeaten in World Cup qualifiers and a tournament favorite, could trigger wider European dissent if it proceeds with a boycott. The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The situation raises questions about FIFA’s consistency in applying human rights standards and the role of politics in global sport.